The grant will provide funding to build a new biotechnology facility to replace the college's current, outdated facility.

"Middlesex has tried to respond to the evolving needs of our workforce partners, particularly in the STEM industries," Cowan said. "Specifically, biotech in Massachusetts is one of the economic engines, and we welcome op-portunities to align our college graduate preparedness with the industry clusters of our region."

Cowan would like to see the college continue its workforce development programs. "We must be available to step in for workforce training needs for local companies who may need help training their employees," said Cowan. "But we must also continuously look for opportunities to blend internship and work experiences into our students' academic preparation.

"Why do you send your sons and daughters to college? So they will grow

emotionally and professionally, and be good citizens, right?," Cowan asked, speaking rhetorically. "But what if they never got a job?"

"Workforce development is part of what every community college is responsible for," said Cowan. "Everything we do is workforce development ­ meaning everything we do is to help our students get a job when they graduate."